Overview
An error is recorded at the official scorer's discretion when a fielder fails to handle a batted ball or throw that should have been made with ordinary effort. This includes dropped catches, wild throws, and missed tags. Runs scored due to errors are unearned and do not affect a pitcher's ERA. NPB's career error record belongs to Katsuya Nomura with 114 (as a catcher), while shortstop Yoshio Yoshida holds the position record with 106. The fielding percentage title is awarded to the player with the fewest errors at each position, and error counts remain a key factor in Golden Glove Award selections. However, errors are inherently subjective and can penalize players with greater range who reach more balls. Consequently, modern analytics favor comprehensive metrics like UZR (Ultimate Zone Rating) and DRS (Defensive Runs Saved) that evaluate overall defensive contribution including range and positioning. While errors remain a traditional defensive statistic dating back to the 19th century, they are now viewed as just one dimension of fielding evaluation in contemporary baseball.